World Cup - Germany beat USA, both progress to last 16

Germany's Thomas Mueller (L) celebrates his goal against the U.S. with his teammates during their 2014 World Cup Group G soccer match at the Pernambuco arena in Recife June 26, 2014 (Reuters)

Both Germany and the USA have progressed to the second round of the World Cup after a solitary second-half Thomas Mueller goal settled matters in Recife.

And with Portugal defeating Ghana 2-1 in Brasilia Germany went through as group winners with USA in second place.

The result means that Germany are likely to play Algeria with USA given a tougher second round draw against Belgium depending on later results.

There had been fears prior to the match that old friends Joachim Loew and Juergen Klinsmann may both play for the draw that would see both sides progress.

But those fears were quickly allayed as both sides set about the match with attacking verve. Germany had much the better of the opening quarter, a combination of excellent defending and wasteful passes somehow keeping the scores level.

But ten minutes into the second half, Germany finally broke through, Mueller smashing an unstoppable shot past the diving Tim Howard after the keeper had done well to save Per Mertesacker’s initial header.

Germany created enough chances to win by more than just the solitary goal but USA nearly pinched an equaliser at the death as sub Alejandro Bedoya saw his shot well blocked before Clint Dempsey headed just wide.

Conspiracy theories allayed but how good are Germany? Many wondered if the sides would engineer the draw they needed but the match was free-flowing and the only surprise was that there were not more goals. The Germans have been billed as potential winners but have flattered to deceive against both Ghana and now the USA and will need to improve in the knockout stages.

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MAN OF THE MATCH

Omar Gonzalez (USA): Had it not been for the defender, the USA may well have been on the way home with goal difference a consideration. Three superb defensive blocks prevented German goals and his teammates owe him a beer. Any other day and Mueller was the man.